Mix of seriousness, playfulness during celeb tourney

By Kathryn Reed

STATELINE — While Billy Joe Tolliver was breaking a single-day course record, other players on the second day of the American Century Championship tournament were struggling.

As NBA all-star Wally Szczerbiak finished his round and was about to get a bite to eat, he was asked how he did. He shook his head sideways and said “unbelievable” – and not in a good way.

Jerry Rice interacts with the crowd July 17. Photos/Kathryn Reed

Stands and beaches were full, as well as the walkways as people gathered to watch their favorite athlete, comedian or actor. Boats filled the water, pulling right up on the beach. Lots of half naked bodies were frolicking about – some actually paying attention to what was happening on the green part of the grounds.

Thursday’s attendance at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course beat last year’s numbers by 10 percent. Last year the whole celebrity golf tournament drew record crowds.

A big smile came across former wide receiver Jerry Rice’s face when asked about the possibility of switching to baseball with his prowess at the mound on opening day for the Giants this year. He threw out the first pitch to his former QB Steve Young.

Jerry Rice throws out the first pitch at the Giants home opener in April 2010.

A spectator was quick to pipe in that Rice could do anything well.

Some guys admitted to having voted for Rice when he was on “Dancing with the Stars.” They said their wives were voting even more often.

Then there was the person who had to ask if Rice had played for the Forty-Niners. Yes, is the answer – and he has three Super Bowl rings.

For several years Jim Combs of Reno has been coming to Stateline to give Charles Barkley a few cigars. What kind, he wouldn’t say. But he did light one for Barkley as the basketball legend limped down the fairway.

The tournament wraps up today. Click here for tee times.  The action starts at 8:15am at the Lake Tahoe golf course. NBC will be airing the tournament from noon-3pm.

ngg_shortcode_0_placeholder (Click on photos to enlarge.)